Understanding Diabetes Insulin Pumps

Learn more about Diabetes Insulin Pumps.

Understanding diabetes insulin pumps
Imagine improved control of your diabetes with just one “injection.” A diabetes insulin pump is a small, pager-sized device that delivers insulin to the body by a thin plastic tube and a soft plastic needle inserted just under the skin, usually on the abdomen, thighs or buttocks. A simple, programmable interface allows you to control exactly how much insulin the pump delivers.

Basal vs. bolus insulin
A diabetes insulin pump continuously delivers small amounts of insulin 24 hours a day. This insulin is called "basal insulin" and it keeps your blood sugar in the desired range between meals and overnight. When you eat, you program the pump to deliver a "bolus" dose of insulin matched to the amount of food, usually based on the carbohydrate content of the meal.

One “injection”
With a diabetes insulin pump, you're down to only one "injection" every two or three days when you put the needle in (it’s like giving an insulin shot). Some infusion sets have an automatic insertion device to make it easier to insert.

Safety comes first
Because they are worn continuously, diabetes insulin pumps are designed to be durable and safe. They are splash proof, and to shower or take a bath, you can easily disconnect the pump at the end of the tubing. At bedtime, you can place your diabetes insulin pump on the nightstand, under your pillow or even in a pajama pocket. Safety is a primary concern, so there are many alerts to tell you when batteries need to be changed or if there is something blocking the tube.

Is the pump right for you?
Only you and your diabetes team can determine that. But good candidate for a diabetes insulin pump include the following:

• People who have difficulty maintaining control over their blood sugar despite their best efforts
• People who travel frequently or have unpredictable schedules
• People who play sports or are regularly active (i.e., runners, hikers, bicyclists, skaters, etc.)
• Teenagers undergoing physical changes
  

Call Liberty Medical Supply
Liberty Medical Supply delivers a world of diabetes testing supplies right to your door, including diabetes insulin pumps. See if your diabetes testing supplies are covered by Medicare with one simple phone call to Liberty.* Call toll-free 1-877-373-8971.

* Co-payments and deductibles apply.
Source: National Diabetes Education Program
The American Diabetes Association

By the Diabetic Seniors Team

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